I work as a clerical assistant in a pediatric dental office, and I am commonly surprised by the number of children who are scared of the dentist. Many kids think that cleanings will be painful, and they believe they will be scolded for eating sugary foods. Children are also extremely frightful of the noises made by the water spraying tools and the suction devices. As adults, we know that dental cleanings are easy and free of pain. We need to impart this knowledge to our children so they know not to fear the dentist. I have provided blogs that will help you speak with your child about dental care. Good communication, trips to your own dentist, and online videos can assist you. So will good brushing techniques that will make your child proud to see the dentist. Enjoy my articles so you can help your child build oral care confidence.

Teaching Your Children About the Dentist

Determining Eligibility For Porcelain Veneers

24 April 2019

Alfred Kelley

If you are unhappy with your smile, your cosmetic dentist may suggest that you consider porcelain veneers. Unlike bleaching, porcelain veneers are shells that are affixed to your natural teeth to hide imperfections. They are very durable; however, patients need to meet certain criteria to ensure that veneers are the right treatment option for them. Here are the criteria your cosmetic dentist may want you to meet prior to your procedure:

Healthy Gums

If you have gingivitis or periodontitis, which is a severe form of gum disease, your cosmetic dentist may not recommend porcelain veneers. Periodontitis can cause severe inflammation and even destruction of your gum tissue and may even destroy the underlying bone.

If you have periodontitis, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease. While mild to moderate gingivitis can be resolved in a relatively short period of time, it may take months before periodontitis is reversed.

Once your gums are healthy, your cosmetic dentist will feel comfortable enough to recommend porcelain veneers. Before your veneers are attached to your teeth, the top layer of your tooth enamel is removed so that the veneer adheres properly. Because of this, it is essential that your teeth and gum tissue are in the best possible condition so that you can enjoy the aesthetic effects for years to come.

Absence Of Bruxism

Tooth grinding, also known as bruxism, may be another disqualifying factor for those considering porcelain veneers. While the porcelain that is used in dental veneers is considered very strong, the force of grinding your teeth and clenching your jaw may cause extreme wear and tear on your veneers. This may cause the veneers to crack or fall off your tooth.

Bruxism may be caused by a misaligned bite or anxiety. However, once the cause is determined and treated, you may be a candidate for porcelain veneers. In addition to this, when your dentist knows that you have a history of tooth grinding, he or she will closely monitor the condition of your veneers, bite, and jaw, in the event that you have a bruxism relapse. If your bruxism is thought to be caused by anxiety, your dentist may refer you back to your family physician for treatment.

If you have severe gum disease or grind your teeth, work with your dentist to develop an effective treatment option that will help resolve your problem. Once your teeth and gums are healthy, you will then be eligible for porcelain veneers.